As expected, the Gold Coast SUNS will take an inexperienced squad across to Western Australia for the team's second NAB Challenge game against West Coast on Thursday March 3.
Speaking to the media following Gold Coast’s 25-point win over the Brisbane Lions on Sunday, coach Rodney Eade confirmed that at least eight players would not make the longest domestic flight in Australia, including some of the SUNS’ senior leaders.
READ: Lynch leads SUNS to victory
“We’ll probably drop at least eight,” Eade said.
“I reckon May, Thompson, Lynch, Rischitelli, Malceski, Rosa, probably Kolodjashnij, at least those. Maybe Nicholls.
“So we’ll probably rest eight or so because it’s a big trip. It’s six hours from here, we play again there in four weeks time, it’s just not worth it.
“It’s probably going to be hot as well so we’ll take an inexperienced side.”
Despite the class of cattle staying back on the Gold Coast, there will be some quality coming back into the side with the exciting Jack Martin and vice-captain Dion Prestia likely to headline the list of inclusions.
“Jack Martin will play. Dion (Prestia) will probably be available. Saad will be right and Harbrow will be right,” Eade said.
READ: Pre-Season report- second year players
“Then there will be others. Matera and Schade, McKenzie, those players as well.
“And we may rest another one or two. Touk may get a rest, we’re not too sure.”